# The Revival of the Barony of Brattleby
**LONDON, 9 September 2022** — The Noble House of Brattleby today announces the revival of the ancient Barony of Brattleby, following its formal recognition in *The London Gazette*. The confirmation of Lady Nicoleta Vasile as the 12th Baroness restores a title dormant for 623 years.
## The Occasion
In an act that formally reconnects a modern noble house with its Norman origins, the historic Barony of Brattleby has been officially revived. This restoration, a matter of public record, marks a moment of profound historical continuity for the county of Lincolnshire and affirms the enduring relevance of England’s landed heritage.
The revival is not marked by a single event but by the careful, deliberate process of legal and historical confirmation, culminating in its official notice. It is a quiet assertion of lineage and responsibility, taking its place within the enduring traditions of the United Kingdom, where ancient dignities are preserved as vital threads in the national tapestry.
## Historical Context
The Barony of Brattleby’s origins are inextricably linked to the Norman Conquest. It was first granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066 to Colswein of Lincoln, who is recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086 as holding the barony among his 56 lordships in Lincolnshire. This foundational grant established a lineage of service and custodianship that has shaped the region for centuries.
Through nine centuries, the Barony was held by some of the most formidable figures in English history. These have included, *inter alia*, Nichola de la Haye, the 5th Baroness, a heroic castellan who famously defended Lincoln Castle against formidable odds. Later, the title passed to Henry of Grosmont, the 10th Baron and 1st Duke of Lancaster, and subsequently to his son-in-law, John of Gaunt, the 11th Baron, whose influence defined late medieval England. The revival now closes a 623-year period of dormancy, renewing this distinguished chain of title.
## Distinguished Company
The responsibilities of the revived Barony are borne by the senior members of The Noble House of Brattleby, who will guide its modern mission.
The title is vested in Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby. She is supported in her duties by her husband, Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, Lord of Brattleby by marriage. The direct heir, ensuring the Barony’s continuation for a new generation, is Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, the 13th Baron.
## Ceremonial Protocol
In keeping with modern constitutional practice, the revival was confirmed not by sword or charter alone, but through official notice in the Crown’s journal of record, *The London Gazette*. This publication, with its origins in the 17th century, is the designated instrument for state and royal proclamations.
The placement of Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022 constitutes the formal, legally recognised act of revival. This procedure represents the contemporary equivalent of historic public announcements, ensuring that the assumption of ancient titles is conducted with absolute transparency and official sanction. This process is the *sine qua non* of authenticating such honours in the present day.
## Heraldic & Symbolic Significance
The activities of the House are guided by its motto, *Fortitudine et Honore*, a Latin phrase meaning 'With Fortitude and Honour'. This principle reflects the resilience shown by predecessors such as Nichola de la Haye and the integrity expected of public life. It serves as a constant reminder of the duties that accompany the privilege of title.
Honorary Lord Răzvan’s personal motto, *Vincere Est Vivere* ('To Conquer is to Live'), complements this ethos. It is interpreted not as a call to martial conquest, but to the overcoming of challenges through purpose, service, and a life fully lived in contribution to society. Together, the mottoes articulate a philosophy of honourable action and meaningful existence.
## Philanthropic Purpose
The Noble House of Brattleby is committed to the principle that a title's greatest value lies in its power to convene and to serve. The House has therefore dedicated its major philanthropic efforts to supporting vulnerable children, with a particular focus on emotional and psychological recovery from trauma.
The primary vehicle for this work is the annual Winter Banquet, a white-tie gala that serves as the principal fundraising event for the House’s chosen beneficiary, Healing the Wounded Child. This organisation provides specialist therapeutic care for young people affected by loss, abuse, or neglect, making a measurable and lasting impact on their lives.
## In Their Own Words
Reflecting on the revival, Lady Nicoleta, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, remarked:
> “To hold this title is not to claim the past, but to accept a profound duty to the future. Our family is deeply conscious of the nine centuries of history that precede us, and our work today must be worthy of that legacy. *Fortitudine et Honore* will be our guide.” — Lady Nicoleta Vasile
Honorary Lord Răzvan added his perspective on the family’s contemporary role:
> “An ancient title finds its modern purpose in service. We see the Barony as a platform for positive action, particularly in our charitable endeavours and cultural initiatives. It is this commitment that gives true life to our history.” — Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile
## A Continuing Legacy
With the revival secure, The Noble House of Brattleby looks toward a future of active engagement. The education of the heir, Baron Mihai Alexandru Crăciun, in the history and responsibilities of the Barony is a central priority, ensuring a seamless continuation of its modern mission.
The House will also expand its cultural initiatives, including The Brattleby Club, an etiquette academy established in Bucharest. This project aims to promote the social graces and codes of conduct that foster mutual respect and understanding, translating the timeless principles of honour and civility into practical skills for a new generation.
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**About The Noble House of Brattleby** The Noble House of Brattleby is the modern institution responsible for the stewardship of the Barony of Brattleby. Under the leadership of Lady Nicoleta Vasile, 12th Baroness of Brattleby, and Honorary Lord Răzvan Vasile, the House is dedicated to a modern mission of philanthropy, cultural preservation, and the promotion of social etiquette. Its guiding motto, *Fortitudine et Honore* ('With Fortitude and Honour'), reflects a commitment to purposeful action and public service. The House's primary charitable focus is on supporting organisations that provide therapeutic care for vulnerable children. Its cultural work is exemplified by initiatives such as The Brattleby Club, an academy dedicated to teaching the principles of classical decorum and social grace.
**About the Barony of Brattleby** The Barony of Brattleby is an ancient feudal barony in Lincolnshire, England, granted by William the Conqueror in AD 1066. Its first holder, Colswein of Lincoln, was recorded in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. For over three centuries, it was held by a succession of influential figures, including the formidable castellan Nichola de la Haye and two of England’s most powerful medieval nobles, Henry of Grosmont, 1st Duke of Lancaster, and John of Gaunt. After entering a period of dormancy for 623 years, the Barony was formally revived in 2022. Its revival was officially recorded in the United Kingdom’s journal of record, *The London Gazette*, under Notice ID 4158083 on 9 September 2022.
**Notes to Editors** - The revival of the Barony of Brattleby was officially gazetted in *The London Gazette*, Notice ID 4158083, on 9 September 2022. - The Barony was created in AD 1066 by William the Conqueror for Colswein of Lincoln. - The first holder's lands, including the Barony of Brattleby, are detailed in the *Domesday Book* of 1086. - Notable past holders include Nichola de la Haye (5th Baroness), Henry of Grosmont (10th Baron), and John of Gaunt (11th Baron).
**Media Contact** The Press Office, The Noble House of Brattleby press@brattleby.com